On Sunday last October 3rd, AGS was represented by 4 members who travelled to the midlands hamlet of Glasson, known locally as the Village of the Roses.  The first ever 3/4 marathon on Irish soil attracted 399 participants from all four provinces.  The race HQ was the internationally renowned Glasson Golf and Country Club, nestled above the majestic tranquil waters of Lough Ree, Co. Westmeath.  Being Ryder Cup weekend a Golf Club was the perfect HQ. The race teed off promptly at 11:00am in near perfect conditions, with very little wind and intermittent sunshine.  A positive atmosphere abounded as athletes discussed their final preparations for the upcoming autumn marathons.  Although the midlands are perceived to be flat, the course was anything but.  Hills dominated, particularly during the first 10k of the race which was primarily uphill, another real test was a long drag which dominated mile 7 to 8.  However, an Alpine like climb overshadowed mile 19, and the splits reflected the toughness of this draconian climb so close to the finish.  AGS as previously mentioned was represented by a motley crew of solid performances.  Clubhouse leader on the day, and in 7th place overall was Anthony Malone in 2:10:17.  Native to the area Anthony had some local knowledge on the layout of the idyllic local byways and fairways, which he used to his advantage on the back nine.  John Griffin having returned from the Australian Tour, putted consistently throughout, placing 80th, in 2:40:08.  Mick O'Keeffe kept his Dublin Marathon plans on track chipping in with an overall time of 3:14:39, while John Harrington in his longest ever race ran steadily from tee to green producing 3:21:38, a fine performance considering Rookie John's recent introduction to running.  AGS would also like to offer it's congratulations to Rita Flaherty, an honourary member of our club on a fine performance also.  All in all, this race was an ideal prep' for Dublin and next year the event should grow and proliferate because it is planned to be run 5 or 6 weeks prior to the Dublin marathon, allowing more time to recuperate.  AGS would also like to congratulate the organiser's Barry Minnock and Paul Mahon on their very professionally run, value for money event.